International Day of Peace

July, 30 2013admin

When is International Day of Peace?

International Day of Peace is held every September 21st. Founded by the United Nations’ General Assembly, this holiday is meant to promote peace and to recognize the peaceful efforts of people all over the world. The holiday is also simply referred to as “Peace Day.” Since its establishment, the International Day of Peace has evolved into one of the most recognized non-public holidays in the world.

History

The purpose of the United Nations is to create a global community in which the voices of all nations may be heard. This promotes better communication and understanding. It’s no surprise that Peace Day is one of the most highly recognized holidays enacted by the U.N. The International Day of Peace is also a significant symbol of the United Nations because it was enacted on the same date that the General Assembly opened in 1982. Between 1982 and 2001, this holiday was every third Tuesday in the month of September.

The United Nations added another important aspect to this in 2002, when the agency made Peace Day permanent. Since then, it has been celebrated every September 21st and it is a day of ceasefire. This gives people an opportunity for reflection, particularly in war-torn nations. The concept of a ceasefire on the International Day of Peace is often recognized on a global scale, but it can also be applied to individuals. For example, families who argue may decide not to do so on Peace Day.

Celebrations

All activities related to the International Day of Peace of meant to be free of hatred and violence. While some groups choose to organize demonstrations to promote world peace, all of these activities are done in a non-violent matter in order to stay true to the holiday. Peace walks, prayers, concerts and picnics are among just some of the group activities promoted for Peace Day. Some events are also educational in nature. At noon, a moment of silence is often observed, sometimes with candlelight vigils.

While peace is often perceived as being promoted between persons, Peace Day can also be celebrated individually. Some people choose to seek peace within themselves through meditation, while other plant trees to symbolize peace with the earth.

Doves and olive branches are the two most common symbols utilized for this holiday. The dove is an international symbol of peace, one of which is often used in some of the world’s religions, too. The olive branch symbolizes an offering of peace to another person. Since the holiday was established by the General Assembly, the logo of the United Nations may also be seen on this day.

Peace Day is not considered a traditional public holiday. If September 21st falls on a working day, then government offices are still open. However, this doesn’t deter celebrations, as many people choose to observe the holiday in every aspect of their lives – including the workplace. The idea of the International Day of Peace is to filter peaceful actions into your current life to make it better.